In a night that will be remembered for years, Russian superstar Anatoly "Sladkiy" Malykhin delivered a masterclass performance to reclaim the ONE Heavyweight MMA World Title, stopping "Reug Reug" Oumar Kane in emphatic fashion. The main event of The Inner Circle on May 15 took place inside Bangkok's legendary Lumpinee Stadium, setting the stage for one of the most anticipated rematches in recent MMA history.
The stakes couldn't have been higher. After their razor-close first encounter in November 2024, both warriors entered the ring with something to prove. From the opening bell, it was clear this would be a war of attrition. Kane, fighting from his southpaw stance, used side kicks and disciplined counters to keep distance, while Malykhin marched forward like a freight train, searching for any opening.
But the 38-year-old Malykhin—already the ONE Light Heavyweight and Middleweight MMA World Champion—had other plans. In the second round, he cranked up the pressure, unleashing those trademark overhand punches that have become his calling card. Kane, the Senegalese giant, refused to back down, timing his entries perfectly and even catching "Sladkiy" with a sharp uppercut. The tactical chess match continued through the third round, with both fighters landing heavy shots but refusing to wilt.
Round four started much the same way, with both men emptying their tanks in the center of the ring. Hooks, kicks, and counters flew back and forth. But as Malykhin had promised, he only needed one opening to change everything. A perfectly timed right cross landed flush, badly wobbling Kane. In that moment, the Russian powerhouse exploded forward with a barrage of punches that forced referee Olivier Coste to step in at 1:54 of the fourth round.
The victory improved Malykhin's record to 15-1 and preserved his perfect finishing rate—a testament to his relentless fighting style. For fans of combat sports, this was a reminder of why MMA remains the ultimate test of heart, skill, and willpower. And for those looking to channel that same champion's mindset, there's no better inspiration than watching "Sladkiy" do what he does best: adapt, overcome, and finish.